Method for revaluing a phone card

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to method for revaluing a phone card by way of an electronic commerce terminal system. The method comprise the steps of: communicating transaction data from the phone card to a universal server, with the universal server retrieving further user identification from a database based on a dynamic identification interchange within the universal server; evaluating the validity of the transaction data at the universal server; processing the transaction data and the first form and/or the further form of the user identification information; identifying the at least one user account; requesting and transferring funds either between a first one of the at least one user account and a second one of the at least one user account or between the at least one user account and the phone card to increase the value of the phone card, based on the dynamic identification interchange within the universal server.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Divisional Application, claiming the benefit ofU.S. Pat. Application No. 09/335,327, filed Jun. 17, 1999, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. Application Ser. No. 09/293,129, filed onApr. 16, 1999, and U.S. Application No. 09/293,358, filed on Apr. 16,1999, which both are non-provisional claiming priority of U.S.provisional application Ser. No. 60/093,475, inventor H. Brock Kolls,entitled UNIVERSAL INTERACTIVE ADVERTISING AND PAYMENT SYSTEM FOR PUBLICACCESS ELECTRONIC COMMERCE AND BUSINESS RELATED PRODUCTS AND SERVICES,filed on Jul., 20, 1998.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a universal advertising and paymentsystem and method for networking, monitoring, collecting data, sellinggoods and services, controlling interactive advertising, controlling andeffectuating electronic commerce and controlling vending equipmentincluding private and public phones. The present invention also relatesto physical and virtual networking of private and public phones andnetwork hardware, server based network control, and network security.The present invention can be implemented in a manner to allowoperational monitoring and control of networks (and network hardware),vending machines including private and public phones, electronic mail(e-mail), electronic commerce (e-commerce), electronic business(e-business), payment for goods and services, delivery of goods andservices, and advertising worldwide.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The growth of the Internet has created a new way to buy, sell, trade,and barter goods and services worldwide. This new form of buying,selling, trading, and bartering may commonly be referred to aselectronic commerce or e-commerce and or electronic business ore-business. The process of conducting these types of transactions can becalled an electronic commerce transaction, electronic businesstransaction, e-commerce transaction, or e-business.

In addition, as more business gain access to the Internet the waybusinesses conduct business may also change. This new form of conductingbusiness on the Internet can be referred to as electronic business, ore-business.

As more individuals and businesses gain access to and or develop apresence on the Internet more goods and services can be made availableand offered to buy, sell, trade, and or barter. Resultant from rapidgrowth trends in Internet usage, e-commerce transaction and e-businesstransaction trends may also be increasing.

Prior to recent Internet, e-mail, e-commerce, and e-business trends manycompanies might have been able to manage business information processesincluding dissemination of timely information, order processing, andcustomer support. Traditional businesses including accounting,operations, sales departments, and order fulfillment departments mighthave been able to expand equally in harmony with new customer generationand increased business sales volume.

A factor in growing and expanding a business equally as well as inmanaging balanced growth of a company may have been the fact that untilthe introduction of the Internet traditional advertising means (print,radio, television, etc.) reached limited selected market places.Reaching selected market places in a controlled approach could allow acompany to tailor ramping up for increased order processing, orderfulfillment, customer service and or increased ways and opportunitiesfor relevant information to be distributed and otherwise be madeavailable.

The dynamics of the Internet can be that a company with an Internetpresence, ready or not, can have a worldwide presence overnight tomillions of potential customers and shortly thereafter be inundated withorders, customer service issues, merchandise returns, and orderfulfillment requirements. The work load may force some companies into aposition of being unable to support certain individual and customersneeds—at anytime, all the time, anywhere.

In general, the Internet can offer exposure to many millions ofpotential customers worldwide simultaneously. The result can be receiptof more orders, news, and or information requiring processing,disbursement, and or fulfillment then a company can reasonably handle.This can result in poor performance on the part of the order recipientto timely meet business and customer needs. In many cases this couldcause alienation and ultimate loss of a valued or potential businesspartners, and or customers.

As individuals become more reliant on the Internet for e-mail,e-commerce and e-business the demands for access to the Internet mayincrease. In addition, to the buying, selling, trading, and barteringsupported on the Internet other services vital to daily business mayalso be performed online.

For example, Internet banking, stock and security trading, and e-mailand e-business communication may also be a growing functional need ofthe Internet. Unfortunately only individuals with access to computersthat have Internet connectivity can use these services. In large partthis may limit the access to Internet services since many potentialusers might only have access to an Internet capable computer at home orat a place of employment. Even if a computer with Internet access isavailable the opportunity to surf through tens of thousands of Internetweb sites may require more time than is available or may be aninappropriate use of time (as may be common in the work placeenvironment).

Additionally, a computer with Internet access may be too foreboding intime and or skill required from a potential user in finding theappropriate web site, identifying the goods or services desired, andultimately conducting an e-mail, e-commerce, or e-business transaction.Furthermore, the potential lack of security of sensitive credit card andtransaction information, and other sensitive data may be a real threatin discouraging potential users from performing e-commerce transactions.Thus a potential customer may become scared, and or frustrated choosingnot to partake in e-mail, e-commerce, or e-business transactions alltogether.

There are numerous problems for Internet based businesses (referred toas virtual companies or virtual businesses) in that increasedcompetition on the Internet may see their growth diminish. The barrierto entry of a virtual company can be little more than a computer hookedto the Internet. As more web sites appear selling similar products, avirtual company's ability to differentiate itself from other virtualcompanies may diminish. Head-to-head competition may shrink profitmargins, potentially jeopardize an entire business enterprise. Inaddition, web based business may struggle to uniquely identifythemselves—after all most if not all virtual companies exist on webpages, and web pages only.

In addition to virtual companies having to compete with other virtualcompanies, virtual companies have to compete with brick and mortar typecompanies. Brick and mortar type companies may be referred to asphysical companies. Physical companies are companies with physicallocations that the public can access.

Physical companies may have several advantages over virtual companies.For example, in many cases physical companies can see their competitioncoming after them by monitoring and counting the competitions physicallocations. Furthermore, it is much easier for a company with physicallocations to expand by developing an Internet business, then it is for avirtual company to expand by buying or building physical locations.

A number of deficiencies support the long felt need of the presentinvention including the inability of many companies to meet theinformation distribution and availability demands of businesses andindividuals with respect to e-mail, e-commerce, and e-business. Inaddition, the demands for access to Internet services to timely conductbusiness and personal related transactions, as well as a wide variety ofe-mail, e-commerce, and e-business type transactions can result in userdissatisfaction, late or incorrect information, lost opportunities, andor lost sales to name a few.

Deficiencies and shortcomings resulting from limited access to computersthat have Internet access or connectivity may restrict access to virtualcompanies. In addition, the lack of Internet access available toeveryone prevents a large contingent of potential customers fromconducting e-mail, e-commerce, and e-business transactions with virtualcompanies.

Deficiencies and shortcomings of virtual companies include a lack ofways to differentiate themselves among competing rival virtual companiesas well as brick and mortar type physical companies. In addition, theinability of the virtual companies to generate physical point ofpresence in the public may make virtual companies susceptible tocompetition from physical companies that decide to diversify bydeveloping a competing virtual business.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is embodied in a simple and effective system andmethod for a universal control and payment system to distribute anddisplay interactive advertising, conduct electronic mail, electroniccommerce, electronic business, and control the billing for the use ofvending equipment. Vending equipment can include copiers, phones(public, private, cellular), facsimile machines, printers, data-ports,laptop print stations, notebook computers, palmtop computers (PALMPILOT), microfiche devices, projectors, scanners, cameras, modems,communication access, personal data assistants (PDA's). pagers, andother types of vending machines, personal computers (PC), PC terminals(NET PC), and network computers (NC).

One aspect of the present invention provides a system for public accessto electronic mail (e-mail), electronic commerce (e-commerce), andelectronic business (e-business). More specifically, the presentinvention can control, monitor, and effectuate e-mail, e-commerce, ande-business transactions such that the general public can use the presentinvention as a public access electronic commerce station. E-businessincludes data communication related to business activities, and includesfinancial related information, and public transportation information.

Another aspect of the present invention provides the ability to routee-mail, e-commerce, and e-business transactions, allowing e-mail,e-commerce, e-business transactions including credit card and othertypes of transactions to be processed in an online environment.

It is understood that both the foregoing general description and thefollowing detailed description are exemplary, but are not restrictive ofthe invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

The present invention is best understood from the following detaileddescription when read in connection with the accompanying drawings.Included in the drawings are the following Figures:

FIG. 1 shows a flowchart illustrating a high level chart of theinvention;

FIG. 2 shows an example of a public personal computer system;

FIGS. 3A-3D shows a plurality of business center configurations showingsystem 500 integration;

FIGS. 3E shows a public phone with a system 500;

FIGS. 3F shows a cellular phone with a system 500

FIG. 4 shows a system 500 block diagram;

FIG. 5 shows a network 600 block diagram;

FIGS. 6A-6B shows a retail and hotel system embodiment;

FIGS. 7A-7C shows a system 500, PC/NET PC/NC 630, network 600Interconnection;

FIG. 8 shows a security configuration;

FIGS. 9A-9B shows a customer transaction routine 700 flowchart;

FIG. 10 shows a service routine 800 flowchart;

FIG. 11 shows a transaction routing routine 900 flowchart;

FIG. 12 shows a network self configure routine 1000 flowchart;

FIG. 13 shows a card re-value routine 1100 flowchart;

FIG. 14 shows a help desk routine 1200 flowchart;

FIG. 15 shows an advertising routine 1300 flowchart;

FIG. 16 shows a printing routine 1400 flowchart;

FIG. 17 shows a POST-VEND transaction processing routine 1500 flowchart;and

FIG. 18 shows an error detection routine 1600 flowchart;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 shows an overview of the universal interactive advertising andpayment system for vending of public access electronic commerce andbusiness related products and services. The universal interactiveadvertising and payment system is a computer program which may reside ina carrier, such as a disk, diskette or a modulated carrier wave.

A vending machine is defined as any piece of equipment in which productsand/or services can be rendered therefrom. Referring again to FIG. 1,control of a vending machine (referred to as VENDING MACHINE USAGE) caninvolve a first step of denying usage, access, service, or products fromthe vending machine as shown in step 10. Next, in step 20 the systemaccepts user input (data and/or monetary, disclosed herein as PRE-VENDTRANSACTION DATA (i.e. “AUTHORIZATION”)), and then in step 30, thesystem authenticates or verifies the user's input to determine ifVENDING MACHINE USAGE is “authorized.” If, in step 40, VENDING MACHINEUSAGE is “authorized” the processing proceeds to step 50. In step 50,the system effectuates the delivery, monitoring, and dispensing of theproduct, and/or service. Then, in step 60, the system processes thePOST-VEND TRANSACTION DATA to effectuate user (customer) billing, andaccount maintenance. Lastly, in step 70, the system “settles”(effectuates the transfer of funds, i.e. payment) the POST-VENDTRANSACTION DATA.

Step 70 can be optional when a PRE-VEND TRANSACTION can both satisfy therequirements of step 40, “authorization” and step 70, “settling.”Examples of when Step 70 may not be required, can include vending of aproduct or service when at the time of creating the PRE-VEND TRANSACTIONDATA (i.e. the “authorization”) the exact amount of the total sale isknown. Other examples of when step 70 may not be required can includecreating PRE-VEND TRANSACTION DATA (i.e. the “authorization”) where nobill for the product or service will be incurred by the user (customer)(i.e. products and/or services for a particular user are “free”).

One example of a vending machine is shown in FIG. 2, a personal computersystem, known as a system 100. The arrangement on table 129 is comprisedof a PC 102, a monitor 128, a transaction control device 108 (shown inan exemplary embodiment as a combination of a magnetic card terminal 136and debit card reader-writer 134 packaged together), a keyboard 110, amodem 114, a mouse 112, a printer 104 and a controller 106.

A reliable way to govern the use of a PC system and its variouscomponents is to effectuate control of the mouse 112, keyboard 110,printer 104, modem 114, telecommunication lines (phone, ISDN, asymmetricdigital subscriber line) and other peripheral devices. A PC system whichhas a mouse and keyboard under regulated control of a transactioncontrol device 108 (such transaction control device capable of placingthe mouse and keyboard in an inoperable state) can effectively preventunauthorized use of the PC system. With an inoperable keyboard, anunauthorized user can not make typographic input. Furthermore, aninoperable mouse prevents an unauthorized user from selecting functionsor features, entering selections or choices or executing control ofsoftware programs. To further enhance and secure a PC system, regulatingcontrol of other components of the PC system can also be implemented.

A transaction control device 108 is defined as any device that canaccept coins, currency, magnetic cards, phone card, smart cards, creditcards, debit cards or other value storing medium and is capable ofcommunicating a set of qualifying/disqualifying data orenabling/disabling data to a second control device. Transaction controldevices such as a debit card reader-writer, a coin or currency activateddevice or a credit card terminal provide a means for indicating toexternal peripheral devices that a set of satisfying criteria has beenmet and allowance of system use is granted (an enabling signal).

FIGS. 3A-3D show an exemplary embodiment for the present invention, anunattended business center in which product and services can be vended.The control of a vending machine can include monitoring and accountingfor products and services rendered from the vending machine. Vendingmachines can include copiers such as copiers 602A-602F, phone/data-portcombinations such as phone 648, facsimile machines such as fax604A-604B, and printers such as printer 104 and printer 612A-612G. Othertypes of vending machines can include, laptop/palm computer printstations such as laptop print station 646, microfiche devices (notshown), projection equipment (not shown), scanners (not shown), anddigital cameras (not shown). Additionally, peripherals such as personalcomputers (PC) 102/630, personal computer terminal (NET PC) 630, andnetwork computer (NC) 630, as well as traditional vending machines canbe referred to generally as vending machines.

A personal computer (PC)—PC terminal (NET PC)—network computer (NC) 630can be a PC 102 and can be a PC-NET PC-NC 630A-630D. PC-NET PC-NC 630A-Dand PC 102 can be referred to as PC-NET PC-NC 630 or generally as a PC630. A NET PC can be a PC with a network connection to a server.Furthermore, a NET PC can rely and utilize services remotely over thenetwork. NET PC services can include software, access to the Internet,access to remote locations, access to other online services, as well asaccess to other data transmission mediums. These additional transmissionmediums can include a telecommunication service (wired and wireless), atelephone, integrated service digital network (ISDN), an asymmetricdigital subscriber line (ADSL), a very small aperture transmission(VSAT) satellite, a cable modem, and a Ti telecommunication line. An NCis a network computer reliant on a server for many computing functions.Such computing functions can include remote software access, access tothe Internet, remote locations, other online services, as well as accessto other data transmission mediums such as telecommunication service(wired and wireless), telephone, ISDN, ADSL and VSAT satellite.Furthermore, the NC can rely on an on-site, off-site remote, Internet,or other data connections to establish data communications with a singleserver or multiple servers.

PC 630 can be a specialized PC, which through software prevents a userfrom functionally using the PC 630 until a satisfying condition orstate, is presented. Upon receipt of the satisfying criteria, PC 630 byway of software intervention allows a user to functionally use the PC630. A unique feature of this form of PC is that while software grantsand denies access to the PC system, software continues to oversee theuser's activities, choosing to intervene and prevent the user fromperforming certain functions. Functions that can be blocked are thosethat comprise system security, including access to hardware, access tohardware settings, access to software, and or access to softwaresettings. This specialized form of a PC 630 can generally be referred toas a public PC. For purposes of disclosure this form of PC will bereferred to as a PC 630.

Vended products from a vending machine can include usage time, deviceusage count, printed output, copies, printed pages, fax transmissions,and other related supplies (e.g. food, beverage, staplers, film, rubberbands, paper clips, note pads, computer disks, pens, and pencils).Vended services from a vending machine can include charging for usagetime of a PC-NET PC-NC 630, charging for usage time of online services,access to program applications, or databases, and charging forelectronic commerce transactions.

A public access electronic commerce terminal is a computing device, suchas a system 500. A public access electronic commerce terminal can bereferred to as an electronic commerce terminal. A public accesselectronic commerce terminal can effectuate control of a vending machineas required while allowing a user of the system to view, vend, respondto, or purchase from displayed interactive advertising. Furthermore, auser can make general inquires and obtain other information related tothe interactive advertising from a public access electronic commerceterminal. A system 500 can be a public access electronic terminal. Asystem 500 can also be a transaction control device, such as atransaction control device 108. An E-PORT manufactured by USATECHNOLOGIES can be a system 500.

The ability to view, vend, obtain information, respond to, or purchasefrom displayed interactive or electronic advertising by way of anelectronic computing device is generally referred to as an electroniccommerce transaction or as electronic commerce. A system 500 can also bean electronic computing device.

A typical business center can be comprised of a plurality of vendingequipment. A business center can include a copier 602A, a fax machine604A, a laptop/palmtop print station 646, a data-port/phone 648, and aPC-NET PC-NC 630 (PC 630). Furthermore, many business centers and retailoutlets (store or location) require a plurality of copiers 602, aplurality of faxes 604, a plurality of PCs 630, and other vendingequipment to meet the needs of their customers. A control system, andoperational method which can interface and control a plurality ofdifferent types of vending equipment is also required. It is alsodesirable that each vending machine is networked to share resources andreduce undue duplication, and expense of equipment. For example, whenprinting a customer receipt is required, a single printer on the networkcan allow a plurality of vending machines to share the single printer.Furthermore, networking vending machines in a business center, or aretail outlet facility enables shared transaction processingcapabilities and allows system integration with existing POS, PMS/MIS,and other network systems. A management information system (MIS) can bea POS svstem or a PMS system.

Referring again to FIGS. 3A-3D, there is shown an unattended businesscenter, which includes a plurality of systems 500. Referring to FIG. 3A,there is shown a system 500 with a first display means 582, a smart cardreader/writer 548, a keypad 540 and a magnetic card acceptor 550.Additional interface components (not shown) can be interfaced to system500 to allow the acceptance of other identity forms such as keys, andbiometrics.

Referring to FIG. 3B, there is shown business center furniture, referredto as table 129 on which is shown a copier 602A interconnected with asystem 500B. A system 500B can be a system 500. Also shown on table 129is a printer 612A, data-port/phone 648, a smart card re-value station638, and a laptop/palmtop print station 646 interconnected with a system500C. A system 500C can be a system 500. A re-value station 638 can be asystem 500. A data-port/phone 648 can include or be operated by a system500. Also shown is a server 632 interconnected with a telecommunicationline 642. Telecommunication line 642 can be a VSAT connection or othernetwork type connection.

Referring to FIG. 3C, there is shown a computer workstation toillustrate a plurality of exemplary embodiments of how a system 500 canbe integrated into, and control the use of a PC 630. Although in anexemplary embodiment only a single system 500 is required to effectuatecontrol of a PC 630, several systems 500 are shown to illustrate how asystem 500 can be mounted, or implemented to control a PC 630 in avariety of exemplary ways.

A computer desk referred to as table 129 is shown on which is placed aprinter 104, and a keyboard 110. Also, on table 129 there is shown a PC630. A system 500 can be integrated into the PC 630, whereby control ofPC 630 can be effectuated. Furthermore, there is shown a monitor 128with a system 500 integrated into the monitor 128, whereby control of aPC 630 can be effectuated. There is also shown a system 500 mounted tothe table 129, whereby control of a PC 630 can be effectuated.Additionally, there is shown in FIG. 3D a keyboard 110 with a system 500integrated into keyboard 110, whereby control of a PC 630 can beeffectuated.

Referring to FIG. 3E there is shown a phone 180 with a system 500. Aphone 180 can be a system 500. Furthermore, a phone 180 can beoperationally related to a system 500. In addition, a phone 180 can be apublic, private, wireless phone or cellular phone or other similar typesof telecommunication device. Suitable phone 180 can include thosemanufactured by GENERAL ELECTRIC, AT&T, NYNEX, SPRINT, MCI, BELLTELEPHONE (BELL SOUTH, BELL ATLANTIC, ETC.), SONY, AUDIOVOX, QUALCOM,ERICKSON, MOTOROLA, 3COM. SHARP, PANASONIC, TEXAS INSTRUMENTS, CABLE ANDWIRELESS, LDI. or other telephone manufacturers or suppliers. A phone180 is a specific type of phone 648. A phone 180 can be a phone 648.

Referring to FIG. 3F there is shown a cellular phone 182 with a system500. A cellular phone 182 can be a system 500. A cellular phone 182 canbe operationally related to a system 500. Alternatively, a cellularphone 182 can be integrated with, but separate from a system 500.Suitable cellular phone 182 can include those manufactured by GENERALELECTRIC, AT&T, NYNEX, SPRINT, MCI, BELL TELEPHONE (BELL SOUTH, BELLATLANTIC, ETC.), SONY, AUDIOVOX, QUALCOM, ERICKSON, MOTOROLA, 3COM,SHARP, PANASONIC, TEXAS INSTRUMENTS, CABLE AND WIRELESS, LDI, or othercellular telephone manufacturers or suppliers. A phone 182 is a specifictype of phone 648. A phone 182 can be a phone 648.

A phone 180, and a cellular phone 182 can be referred to as adata-port/phone 648.

There is shown in FIG. 4, a system 500. The system 500 includes numerousmutually exclusive control means. In a plurality of customerspecifications and where customer cost considerations demand, there mayarise a situation where a system 500 may not contain or require the useof certain features or functions. Accordingly, a system 500 can easilybe manufactured to include or exclude a specific combination of controlmeans to produce the desired control result at a desirable cost to acustomer. For example, a customer may desire to operate a system 500without an infrared communications means 502. In such a case, a system500 could be manufactured with the omission of specific control means,such as infrared communications means 502. In any combination, the sameinclusion or exclusion of control means can be applied to other controlmeans and to the system 500 in general.

Interconnected with a microcontroller 532 is an infrared communicationsmeans 502 whereby data communication between microcontroller 532 and adevice external to a system 500 can data communicate. A microcontroller532 can be a controller 106 and can be implemented with a ZILOGZ83C9320FSC or a ZILOG Z8038220FSC. An infrared communications means 502can be implemented with an infrared remote control receiver module, suchas a LITEON LT1033, and an infrared light emitting diode (LED) fortransmitting data, such as a LITEON LT1062 LED.

FIG. 5 shows a network 600, implementing a plurality of systems 500together with a PC 630, a server 632, a PMS/MIS 620 and a POS system614. In an exemplary embodiment, a hand-held device, such as a palmtopcomputer, by way of infrared communications means 502 can access thenetwork and all systems 500 connected to the network. Furthermore, ahand-held device by way of infrared communications means 502 can datacommunicate with a server 632 and/or a POS system 614 and/or PMS/MISsystem 620 and/or a PC 630. In addition, a hand-held device can datacommunicate by way of infrared communications means 502 with any vendingequipment attached to a first local area network (LAN) 622 and/or asecond local area network (LAN) 626 by way of a LAN connection means556.

In an exemplary embodiment, the use of a LAN can provide necessarynetwork functionality. It is understood by one skilled in the art ofnetwork design that other acceptable network architectures could beemployed to produce satisfactory results. For example, a wide areanetwork (WAN) could be substituted, or used in combination with a LAN.For purposes of this disclosure all network architecture schemes will begenerally referred to as a local area network (LAN).

In an exemplary embodiment, a service technician with a hand held devicecould record system readings and program functionality of any system 500controller and/or a network server. By using a hand-held device to datacommunicate with infrared communications means 502, a technician canupload or download data including program code, service data,transaction data, and other operational data.

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is a light emitting diode (LED)indicator means 504, whereby multicolored LED's can be utilized toindicate to a user the “status,” “state,” or “process step” of a routineor function. An example of a “status” function for LED indicator means504, can be the “on-line” or “off-line” status of a printer attached tothe printer interface 530. An example of a “state” indication, by way ofLED indicator means 504, can be a “out-of-order” indicator LEDilluminating when equipment or the system 500 is “out-of-service.” Anexample of a “process step” function by way of LED indicator means 504,can be a first step indicator illuminating to indicate a “request forauthorization”, a second step indicator illuminating to indicate an“approved authorization—preparing equipment for use”, and a third stepindicator illuminating to indicate the “equipment is ready for use.” AnLED indicator means 504 can be implemented by way of a plurality ofPANASONIC LN21RPHL (red LED), LN31GPHL (green LED), and LN41YPHL (amberLED) LED's.

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is an equipment control means506. The equipment control means 506 enables and disables the vendingequipment for use responsive to customer identification “authorization”by way of a smart card, debit card, credit card, or other inputidentification means. An equipment control means 506 can be implementedwith at least one relay, such as an OMRON relay #G2V-1-DC5, and/or atleast one opto-isolator, such as QUALITY TECH #MID40OQT.

In an exemplary embodiment, a vending machine such as a printer 104, PC630, a projector (not shown), fax machine 604A or copier 602A can becontrolled by way of equipment control means 506. Such control can beeffectuated by activating and deactivating a switching device (aswitching device can be an integrated part of the equipment controlmeans 506), such as relay, or a transistor, or other control circuitoperationally responsive to microcontroller 532. Control of a vendingmachine can be facilitated by way of a switching device in a first stateactivating a circuit or setting a first state within the vending machineallowing the vending machine to function normally. Furthermore, thevending machine can be deactivated for use, by way of a switchingdevice, in a second state, breaking a circuit or setting a second statewithin the vending machine, disabling the vending machine'sfunctionality.

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is a vend counter/timer means508. The vend counter/timer means 508 independently counts and/or timesevents that occur external to system 500. Microcontroller 532 by way ofthe vend counter/timer means 508 can program functionally of the vendcounter/timer means 508. Furthermore, vend counter/timer means 508 canmonitor the status of a vend cycle, counts of vending events, andfrequency of cycles wherein a rate, or rate change over a time period ifrequired. Additionally, counter/timer means 508 can monitor timeintervals, where vending price may depend on the length of time, afunction, feature or vending machine is in use by a customer. A vendcounter/time means 508 can be implemented with a ZILOG #Z80-CTC, and ora QUALITY TECH #MID40OQT opto-isolator.

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is a keyboard and mouse controlmeans 510. In an exemplary embodiment, a keyboard/mouse control means510 can be implemented with clamping voltages (for PC keyboard and PS2style mouse) and mono-polar transmission voltages (for serial stylemouse).

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is a printer/modem control means512. In an exemplary embodiment, a printer/modem control 512 enables anddisables usage of a printer and modem, responsive to control signalsfrom microcontroller 532. The PC by way of system 500 can share theprinter with the system 500, such that both the PC and system 500 canprint to the printer. The PC by way of system 500 can share the modemwith system 500, such that both the PC and system 500 can use the modemfor remote data communications.

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is a telephone interface controlmeans 514. In an exemplary embodiment system 500 by way of telephoneinterface control means 514 enables and disables the usage of atelecommunication line. A telephone interface control means 514 can beimplemented as previously disclosed as telecommunication control means312. Furthermore, telephone interface control means 514 can include aSILICON SYSTEMS 75T202-IP DTMF decoder, whereby microcontroller 532 byway of telephone interface control means 514, detects the telephonenumber being dialed by a vending machine, such as a fax, PC 630,data-port/phone 648, or smart card re-value station 638.

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is an electrically erasable readonly memory (“EEROM”) 516. Such an EEROM 516 can be a MICROCHIP 93LC66serial EEROM. Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is a non-volatilememory 518. Such a non-volatile memory 518 can be a DALLAS SEMICONDUCTORDS1643-120 or DS-1743. Furthermore, the DS1643-120 or DS-1743 canprovide a non-volatile date and time function whereby microcontroller532 can be responsive to events based on date and time and date and timestamp transactions as they occur.

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is a microcontroller monitor520. Such a microcontroller monitor 520 can be a DALLAS SEMICONDUCTORDS1232. Microcontroller monitor 520 provides a power-on reset signal tomicrocontroller 532. A reset signal can be applied to microcontroller532 when the power supply voltage applied to the microcontroller monitor520 falls outside a specific range of voltage (preset within themicrocontroller monitor 520). A reset signal can also be applied tomicrocontroller 532, should microcontroller 532 fail to provide a resetsignal to a watchdog clock time-out counter within microcontrollermonitor 520.

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is a hardware security interfacemeans 522. Hardware security interface means 522 includes a closed loopinterface. A loop of wire can be woven through a series of devices suchas a keyboard 110, mouse 112, monitor 128 and PC 630. An “alarmcondition” results if the wire loop is electrically broken. Further,hardware security interface means 522 includes a plurality of tiltsensors, wherein tilt or motion sensors can be placed on a plurality ofvending equipment and peripherals. An alarm signal is resultant if thetilt sensors are activated (excessive tilting occurs). Furthermore, an“alarm condition” service request can be data communicated by way of theLAN network connection means 556 to any destination location, remote oron the network. Alarm destination locations can include a front desk,security office, owner of the retail store, police or other vendingdevice such as a server 632, a POS system 614, a PMS/MIS system 620 or aPC 630. A hardware security interface means can be implemented withCAROL hook-up wire type C2064. ANAMET INDUSTRIAL, INC. strip wound hosetype stainless steel UI (armored cable) can be used to enclose andprotect the security wire loop. Tilt can be measured by a COMUSINTERNATIONAL #CA204 or a FIFTH DIMENSION #TS7-0 mercury switch.

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is an alarm means 524. An alarmmeans 524 can be implemented using a PANASONIC piezoelectric ceramicbuzzer #EFB-RL37C22. In an exemplary embodiment, a single enclosurefastened to a vending machine can contain a system 500, a hardwaresecurity interface means 522 (including motion and/or tilt sensors), andan alarm means 524. Motion of the vending machine imparts motion offastened system 500 causing a tilting “alarm condition.” Alternatively,an enclosure not fastened to a vending machine containing a system 500,hardware security interface means 522, and alarm means 524 can havemotion and/or tilt sensors fastened to a vending machine external to thesystem 500 enclosure interconnected as required for desirableoperability.

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 are relay switches 526. Relayswitches 526 can be utilized for general-purpose load and signalswitching being responsive to control signals from microcontroller 532.A general-purpose relay switch 526 can be implemented by way of an OMRONG5V-1-DC5 or an OMRON G3B-1 174P-US-DCS (for high current loads).

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is a solenoid control means 528.Solenoid control means 528 is responsive to control signals frommicrocontroller 532 and can effectuate driving of a solenoid. In anexemplary embodiment, the solenoid control means 528 is responsive to asystem 500 detecting an “out-of-supply” condition of a vending machineand opening a supply door/drawer to allow a customer to restock thevending machines. Supplies can include paper, ink and toner for acopier, printer, fax, or PC. In another exemplary embodiment, thesolenoid control means 528 can lock and unlock the business centerfurniture, such as table 129, when circumstances require. In anotherexemplary embodiment, a solenoid control means 528 can lock and unlock aretail store location essentially granting access to a 24-hour area ofthe store. A solenoid control means 528 can be implemented by way of aQUALITY TECH triac output opto-isolator #MOC30IOQT and or a QUALITY TECHgated triac Q2015L5, and/or a GUARDIAN solenoid.

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is an auxiliary terminalinterface control means 530 for interfacing with a transaction controldevice 108.

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is a plurality of input devicesincluding a voice and/or handwriting capture and recognition means 534,a bar code reader 536, a fingerprint/palm/hand reader biometric means538, and a keypad 540. Each of these input devices performs theindicated function independent of microcontroller 532 and by way of datacommunications with microcontroller 532 data communicates results of theinput function to microcontroller 532 for interpretative postprocessing. Handwriting capture and analysis processing allows a system500 to capture a customer's signature. Operating on the capturedsignature an analysis or customer validating process can be performed.Furthermore, the captured signatures can be utilized for authorizationof the transaction and for credit card processing purposes.

A keypad 540 can be a touch screen. A voice and/or handwriting captureand recognition means 534 can be a touch screen. A suitable touch screencan be a part number TPI PN 1059-001 manufactured by TRANSPARENTPRODUCTS, INC. In addition, a touch screen controller part numberADS7843 manufactured by BURR BROWN can be utilized to implement a keypad540.

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is a personal computer memorycard industry association (PCMCIA) interface 542. Industry standardPCMCIA compliant devices can be plugged into the PCMCIA interface 542and data communicate with microcontroller 532. In an exemplaryembodiment, a hand-held device, notebook computer, laptop/palmtopcomputer, modem or other data communication means or other dataprocessing equipment (generally referred to as other data processingequipment) can by way of PCMCIA interface 542 access network 600. Accessto the network can selectively include other systems 500, vendingmachines, servers, VSAT communications, or any other device orcommunication means connected to the network 600. Furthermore, otherdata processing equipment by way of PCMCIA interface 542, can datacommunicate with a server 632, POS system 614, PMS/MIS system 620, or PC630. Other data processing equipment can data communicate by way of thePCMCIA interface 542 with any vending machine or other device attachedto the first LAN network 622 or the second LAN network 626 by way of asystem 500 interconnected with said vending machine.

As an example, a service technician desiring to record network systemreadings or program functionality of a system 500 controller or networkserver (referred to as a “universal server”) can do so by way of PCMCIAinterface 542. With a hand-held device, notebook computer, laptopcomputer, palmtop computer, or other data processing deviceinterconnected to the PCMCIA interface 542 the technician can upload ordownload data including program code, service data, and otheroperational data.

The term “universal server” is defined as a server, network server ordata processing device capable of supporting data communication withother data processing devices. Further, a universal server can be a PC630, PMS/MIS or POS system, or other dedicated computing device. Asystem 500 can be a universal server. A universal server can reside on anetwork 600 locally or remotely. There can be more than one universalserver on a network 600. In addition, a single universal server canmonitor and control numerous different (related or unrelated) networks600. In this fashion, a single universal server or multiple universalservers can monitor an unlimited number of networks 600 worldwide.Processing and data communications can occur between different networks600 that have a universal server in common. Processing and datacommunication between more than one universal server can occur.Additionally, data communication between more than one independentnetwork 600 can occur by way of a plurality of universal servers datacommunicating with each other. A universal server can have dataconnection means to the Internet, be an Internet based server (a webserver) or be an Internet based data storage or processing device.

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is a modem 544. Modem 544 can beused to data communicate with remote locations, such as a credit bureau,other service processing centers, other servers, or other datacommunicating devices (including other systems 500). A modem 544 can bea CERMETEK CH1786LC modem. Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is aplurality of card and key readers and writers including smart cardreader/writer 548, magnetic card reader/writer 550, debit cardreader/writer 552 and a hotel room key/card interface 554. Eachinterface accepts a form of customer identification and datacommunicates with microcontroller 532. A smart card reader/writer 548can be a GEMPLUS GCR400, or a GEMPLUS GCI400, or a NEURON MSR-100, or aNEURON MSR-270 series. A magnetic card reader/writer 550 can be a XICO7102ESA, or a XICO 6272SA, or a NEURON MSR-100, or a NEURON MSR-270series, or a NEURON MCX-370-1R-0101. A debit card reader/writer 552 canbe a DEBITEK, DAYNL, SCHLUMBERGE, ACT, XCP, ITC, COPICARD brand of debitcard reader/writer, or other transaction control device 108.

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is a local area network (LAN)network control means 556. A LAN network connection means 556 includes awireless communication means 558, a carrier current communication means560 and a hardwired communication means 562. A wireless transceivermeans 558 can be a WIRELESS TRANSACTION CORPORATION WCC-1200, WTC-1300,STU-200, or a STU-300. A carrier current communication means 560 can beeffectuated with traditional carrier current technologies, or spreadspectrum technologies. Such a communication means 560 can be implementedas desired and known to one skilled in the art. A hardwired transceivercontrol means 562 can be implemented by way of the RS232 standard serialcommunication, or RS485 serial communication. RS485 data communicationcan be effectuated with a pair of wires (DATA “A” wire and DATA “B”wire). Further, a hardwired communication means 562 can be implementedusing Ethernet, token ring, TCP/IP, Net Buoy or other networking schemeas is known to one skilled in the art.

In an exemplary embodiment the LAN network connection means 556 allowsvending equipment to be located in permanent or temporary “stationarylocations,” “in-room locations” and on “mobile carts.” A mobile cart PC630, copier 602A or fax 604A can be located pool side, in a recreationarea, or in a hotel room and remain connected to the LAN network by wayof LAN connection means 556, wireless communication means 558, carriercurrent communication means 560, or hardwired communication means 562.

Interconnected are a first communication means 564 and a secondcommunication means 566. The first and second communication means 564and 566 can be PARALLEL, RS232, RS485, PCMCIA, LAN or other standardcommunication ports. Interconnection to peripheral devices can includeprinters, network controllers, hand-held devices, and PC's 630. A firstand second communication means 564 and 566 can be implemented with aSIPEX SP235A (RS232—TTL converter) or a MAXIM MAX244CQH, and/or a MAXIMMAX481 (RS485 converter).

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is a parallel interface 568. Byway of parallel interface 568 microcontroller 532 can data communicatebi-directionally with other data devices. Parallel interface 568 cansupport standard parallel communication formats including ECC and ECPformats. Networking with other PC's 630 can also be effectuated by wayof parallel interface 568.

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 are voice record and playbackmeans 570. An interconnection exists between the voice recorder andplayback means 570 and a microphone 572. A further interconnectionexists between the voice recorder and playback means 570 and a speaker574. Data communication to system 500 by way of LAN network connectionmeans 556 can include bi-directional voice and video datacommunications. Microcontroller 532, voice record and playback means570, microphone 572, speaker 574, camera 578, and, optionally, otherelements of system 500 can be combined for an interactive user responsesystem. The interactive user response system allows users of the systemto effectively communicate data, voice, audio, and video over thesystems and network described herein.

In an exemplary embodiment, an intercom system can be operationallyestablished between a plurality of systems 500 and a PC 630, server 632,POS system 614, PMS/MIS system 620, or other central location (like thefront desk in a hotel, security office, etc.). Voice record and playbackmeans 570 including a microphone 572 and a speaker 574 can beimplemented with an OKI SEMICONDUCTOR MSM9841 or a OKI SEMICONDUCTORMSM6585RS, a PANASONIC #WM-034BY electric condenser microphonecartridge, and a PANASONIC #EAS-3P128A micro speaker.

In an exemplary embodiment, a customer/user can respond to anadvertisement displayed on the first or second display means 580 or 582.By way of LAN network connection means 556 a customer can be connectedwith a sales organization, a help desk, or an information center (ingeneral an ORGANIZATION). By interactively communicating with theorganization by way of microphone 572, speaker 574, camera 578 and thefirst or second display means 580 and 582, a customer can obtainproduct, service, or other information. Should a customer decide to buy,or should a payment or identification (ID) be necessary, a customer canpresent appropriate ID at smart card reader/writer 548, magnetic cardreader/writer 550, debit card reader/writer 552, room key/card interface554 or any other appropriate input to system 500. Appropriateidentification means can include ID, credit card, smart card, cash,coin, debit card, or biometric input. In an exemplary embodiment, goodsand services can be purchased, and electronic commerce effectuatedbetween a user, a system 500, and a location, site, and organization(local or remote).

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is a first display means 582.First display 582 can be a liquid crystal display (LCD), whereintransaction information and advertising can be displayed. A firstdisplay 582 can be implemented by way of an OPTREX #DMF5002NY-EBsuper-twist graphics module, or an OPTREX #DMC-6204NY-LY liquid crystaldisplay, or a OPTREX #DMF-50944NCU-FW-1 and an EPSON SED1354FOA LCDcontroller.

Interconnected with microcontroller 532 is a video record and playbackmeans 576. An interconnection exists between video record and playbackmeans 576 and a camera 578. A further interconnection exists between thevideo record and playback means 576 and a first display means 582 and asecond display means 580. In an exemplary embodiment, a video intercomsystem can be operationally established between a plurality of systems500 and a PC 630, server 632, POS system 614, PMS/MIS system 620, orother central location (like the front desk in a hotel, security office,etc.). Video record and playback means 576 including camera 578, a firstdisplay means 582, and a second display means 580 can be implementedwith a PANASONIC #BS7259L black and white CCD camera, a cathode ray tube(CRT) monitor, a OPTREX #DMF-5002NY-EB super-twist graphics module,and/or an OPTREX #DMC-6204NY-LY liquid crystal display, or a OPTREX#DMF-50944NCU-FW-1 and an EPSON SED1354FOA LCD controller.

In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of systems 500 can be connectedto a plurality of vending machines. Furthermore, a plurality of systems500 can be networked together with a PC 630, a server 632, a PMS/MIS620, or a POS system 614. There is shown in FIG. 5, a network schematic600, referred to as network 600, implementing a plurality of systems 500networked together with a PC 630, a server 632, a PMS/MIS system 620,and a POS system 614. Any number of vending machines and vending machinetypes can be controlled by way of a plurality of systems 500. Any numberof servers, POS systems, PMS/MIS systems, and remote locations can becontrolled by way of network 600.

In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of systems 500 independentlydata communicate with a server 632, a POS system 614, a PMS/MIS system620, or a PC 630. As previously disclosed a server 632, a POS system614, a PMS/MIS system 620, and a PC 630 that gives remote access to anyof these types of devices including Internet access by way of a PC 630or VSAT connection, will be generically referred to as a universalserver. A universal server can also be a system 500.

Interconnected with a copier 602A can be a system 500B. A system 500Bcan be a system 500. Further, interconnected with a copier 602B can be asystem 500F. A system 50OF can be a system 500. A furtherinterconnection exists between system 500B and the first LAN 622. Afurther interconnection exists between system 500F and the second LAN626 by way of a concentrator 608. A further interconnection existsbetween the concentrator 608 and the second LAN 626.

Concentrator 608 can be a system 500, whereby a plurality of systems 500can interconnect with a single concentrator 608. Implementing aconcentrator 608 allows fewer direct system 500 interconnections to thefirst LAN 622 or the second LAN 626. Furthermore, when a plurality ofsystems 500 are interconnected with a concentrator 608, datacommunication to any individual system 500 by way of a concentrator 608is unimpeded. Furthermore, such data communication by way of aconcentrator 608 is transparent to the first LAN 622, and/or the secondLAN 626, and/or the systems 500, which are interconnected with theconcentrator 608.

The first LAN 622 and the second LAN 626 can be the same LAN, and/oralternatively different LANs. Furthermore, when the first LAN 622, thesecond LAN 626, and any other LAN are to be interconnected, to becomethe same LAN, an interconnection between a plurality of separate LANscan be perfected by way of at least two wireless transceivers 603A and603B. In an exemplary embodiment, a type of wireless transceivers 603Aand 603B can be radio frequency RF type, spread spectrum type, carriercurrent type, and/or other wired or wireless data communication typemethodologies.

Interconnected with a fax machine 604A can be a system 500C. A system500C can be a system 500. Interconnected with a fax machine 604B can bea system 500G. A system 500G can be a system 500. A furtherinterconnection exists between system 500C and the first LAN 622. Afurther interconnection exists between system 500G and the second LAN626 by way of a concentrator 608.

Interconnected with the fax machine 604A, by way of the system 500C, isa remote location 636. Alternatively, fax machine 604A can interconnectand data communicate with remote location 636 without the need of asystem 500C. Remote location 636 can be an online service, Internetsite, credit bureau, database, service center, or other remote location.Remote location 636 can be located on-site in relative geographicproximity to fax machine 604A or off-site geographically locatedanywhere in the world. Furthermore, the fax machine 604A can datacommunicate with remote location 636 by way of standard networkprotocols, by way of an Internet type connection, modem, ISDN, ADSL,VSAT satellite communication, dedicated hardware connection, TCP/IP,other network means, or other wired or wireless communication means.Furthermore, remote location 636 can simultaneously manage datacommunications between any number of networks 600 and remote location636. Data communications can also be facilitated between differentnetworks 600 geographically located anywhere in the world by way of twoor more networks 600 having in common shared data communicationresources with a remote location 636.

Interconnected with a PC 630A can be a system 500A. A system 500A can bea system 500. Interconnected with a PC 630B can be a system 500E. Asystem 500E can be a system 500. A further interconnection existsbetween system 500A and the first LAN 622. A further interconnectionexists between system 500E and the second LAN 626 by way of aconcentrator 608.

Interconnected with the PC 630A is a remote location 606. Remotelocation 606 can be an online service, Internet site, credit bureau,database, service center, or other remote location. Remote location 606can be located on-site in relative geographic proximity to PC 630A oroff-site geographically located anywhere in the world. Furthermore, thePC 630A can data communicate with remote location 606 by way of standardnetwork protocols, by way of an Internet type connection, modem, ISDN,ADSL, VSAT satellite communication, cable modem, Ti telecommunicationline, dedicated hardware connection, TCP/IP, other network means, orother wired or wireless communication means. Additionally, remotelocation 606 can simultaneously manage data communications between anynumber of networks 600 and remote location 606. Data communications canalso be facilitated between different networks 600 geographicallylocated anywhere in the world by way of two or more networks 600 havingin common shared data communication resources with a remote location606.

Interconnected with a debit card/re-value station 610 can be a system500H. A system 500H can be a system 500. A further interconnectionexists between system 500H and the second LAN 626, by way of theconcentrator 608. The debit card/re-value station 610 can be in the formof a customer service kiosk, or a general service kiosk.

In an exemplary embodiment, a customer can purchase, and/orre-value/transfer value or otherwise re-value and/or obtain a valid“ready-to-use” form of ID (to activate a system 500). For example, acustomer can present credit card, cash, coin, or other currency meansand obtain a debit card, smart card or other ID form. Access to productsand services from the vending machines controlled by way of network 600can then be obtained with the valid form of ID. A customer can alsopresent a credit card, cash, coin, or other currency means and transfervalue/credit/cash to a smart card, or other form of ID. A customer canalso present a valid ID to purchase business supplies. Business suppliesavailable from the debit card/re-value station 610 can include postagestamps, staplers, paper clips, paper supplies, writing utensils, bindingand presentation materials, and other business related products.

Interconnected with a printer 612A is the first local area network (LAN)622. The printer 612A can be a system 500 in combination with a printer,or print mechanism. In an exemplary embodiment, a printer 612A can be ageneral-purpose printer for use by a customer, and/or any system 500device on network 600. Any vending machine or universal server on thefirst LAN 622 or the second local area network (LAN) 626 can also accessand data communicate with the printer 612A. Applications for the printer612A can include general-purpose printing, transaction receipt printing,hotel/retail outlet summary report printing, advertisement printing,coupon printing, computer/notebook/laptop/palmtop printing, andhotel/retail outlet activity report printing.

Interconnected with a printer 612B is the second LAN 626. The printer612B can be a system 500 in combination with a printer. In an exemplaryembodiment, a printer 612B can be a general-purpose printer for use by acustomer, and/or any system 500 on network 600. Furthermore, any vendingmachine or universal server on the first LAN 622, or the second LAN 626can utilize printer 612B. Applications for the printer 612B can includegeneral purpose printing, transaction receipt printing, hotel/retailoutlet summary report printing, advertisement printing, coupon printing,computer/notebook/laptop/palmtop printing, and hotel/retail outletactivity report printing.

The printer 612A and the printer 612B are independently accessible,programmable and network functional. Furthermore, any number of printers612A, or 612B can be interconnected on network 600, each of saidprinters 612A, 612B being independently accessible, programmable andnetwork functional. In an exemplary embodiment, sufficient quantities ofprinter 612A, or 612B can be interconnected with the network 600 to bestserve customer convenience.

Interconnected with a pre-paid telephone card vending (re-value and/ordispense) machine 624 can be a system 500J. A system 500J can be asystem 500. A further interconnection exists between the system 500L andthe first LAN 622. In an exemplary embodiment, the pre-paid telephonecard vending machine 624 can effectuate the dispensing and re-valuing ofpre-paid telephone cards. In addition to the pre-paid telephone card'sintended use of operating a telephone, the pre-paid telephone card canalso be utilized as an ID form to access, by way of a system 500,vending equipment interconnected with a system 500 and network 600.

Interconnected with vending machine 640 that dispenses goods, services,food, or beverage can be a system 500K. A system 500K can be a system500. A further interconnection exists between the system 500K and thefirst LAN 622. In an exemplary embodiment, the food and beverage vendingmachine 640 can effectuate the dispensing of goods and services, foodand beverage products.

Interconnected with an information/Internet kiosk 628 is the second LAN626. The information/Internet kiosk 628 can include a system 500 incombination with a PC 630 or other computer data communicationequipment. In an exemplary embodiment, the information/Internet kioskand a system 500 interconnected in combination with theinformation/Internet kiosk 628 can effectuate electronic commercetransactions (payment, shipping, ordering, etc.). Additionally, such asystem can provide access to and can effectuate transactions forproducts and services including other on-line, and/or off-linetransactions (i.e. travel information, coupons, advertising, generaluse, entertainment, business, etc.).

Interconnected with a PMS/MIS system 620 can be a system 500D. A system500D can be a system 500. A further interconnection exists between thesystem 500D and the first LAN 622. In an exemplary embodiment, thePMS/MIS system 620 can allow centralized programming and control of thenetwork 600. The PMS/MIS system 620 can manage data processing needs ofthe network 600, can store and allow modification of vending machinesettings, and implement gathering and maintain marketing, customersurvey and other informational databases. Furthermore, PMS/MIS system620 can support transaction processing, and/or implement the universalserver functionality.

Interconnected with the management information system 620 is a remotelocation 618. Remote location 618 can be an online service, Internetsite, credit bureau, database, service center, or other remote location.Remote location 618 can be located on-site in relative geographicproximity to management information system 620 or off-sitegeographically located anywhere in the world. Further, the managementinformation system 620 can data communicate with remote location 618 byway of standard network protocols, by way of an Internet typeconnection, modem, ISDN, ADSL, VSAT satellite communication, cablemodem, TI telecommunication line, dedicated hardware connection, TCP/IP,other network means, or other wired or wireless communication means.

Furthermore, remote location 618 can simultaneously manage datacommunications between any number of networks 600 and remote location618. Additionally, data communications can be facilitated betweendifferent networks 600 geographically located anywhere in the world byway of two or more networks 600 having in common shared datacommunication resources with a remote location 618.

Interconnected with a point of sale (POS) system 614 can be a system5001. A system 5001 can be a system 500. A further interconnectionexists between the system 5001 and the first LAN 622. In an exemplaryembodiment, the POS system 614 can allow centralized programming controlof the network 600, while managing and retaining all current in-storeprogramming and functionally. The POS system 614 can manage dataprocessing needs of the network 600, can store and allow modificationsof vending machine settings, and can implement gathering and maintainmarketing, customer survey and other informational databases. Further,POS system 614 can support transaction processing, and/or implement theuniversal server functionality.

Interconnected with the POS system 614 is a remote location 616. Remotelocation 616 can be an online service, Internet site, credit bureau,database, service center, or other remote location. Remote location 616can be located on-site in relative geographic proximity to the POSsystem 614 or off-site geographically located anywhere in the world.Further, the POS system 614 can data communicate with remote location616 by way of standard network protocols, by way of an Internet typeconnection, modem, ISDN, ADSL, VSAT satellite communication, cablemodem, TI telecommunication line, dedicated hardware connection, TCP/IP,or other network means, or other wired or wireless communication means.Additionally, remote location 616 can simultaneously manage datacommunications between any number of networks 600 and remote location616. Data communications can also be facilitated between differentnetworks 600 geographically located anywhere in the world by way of twoor more networks 600 having in common shared data communicationresources with a remote location 616.

Interconnected with a server 632 is the first LAN 622. A server 632 canbe a system 500. In an exemplary embodiment, the server 632 can allowcentralized programming control of the network 600, while managing andretaining all current in-store programming and functionally. The server632 can manage data processing needs of the network 600, can store andallow modifications of vending machine settings, and can implementgathering and maintain marketing, customer survey and otherinformational databases. Also, server 632 can support transactionprocessing, and/or implement the universal server functionality.

Interconnected with a smart card re-value station 638 is the second LAN626. A smart card re-value station can be a system 500. The smart cardre-value station 638 can accept a valid form of ID, and/or currency.Furthermore, the smart card re-value station 638 can data communicate byway of the auxiliary terminal control means 530, to a smart card.Additionally, by way of the universal server and/or the dynamicidentification interchange (DII) the smart card re-value station 638 canadd or subtract value (monetary/credit/units) from a smart card. (Thedynamic identification interchange is further disclosed in FIG. 11 inthe transaction routing routine 900, block 908.) The smart card re-valuestation 638 can also display the available amount of value(monetary/credit/units) available and currently stored on, or accessibleby the smart card. A user can also select an amount to operate on(credit/debit) by way of a keypad 540. Additionally, a user can selectthe amount to add, subtract, or transfer from the smart card and fromother banking, credit accounts, or other databases by way of smart cardre-value station 638 preprogramming, universal server settings, or otherinput means. In an exemplary embodiment, the smart card re-value station638 can, by way of the universal server and/or the DII transfer funds toand from, or between account(s), bank account(s), credit bureau(s), orother databases. The accounts or databases can be on-site, off-site,and/or accessible by way of remote location 606, 616, 618, 634, 636, ornetwork 600.

Interconnected with the server 632 is a remote location 634. Remotelocation 634 can be an online service, Internet site, credit bureau,database, service center, or other remote location. Remote location 634can be located on-site in relative geographic proximity to server 632 oroff-site geographically located anywhere in the world. The server 632can also data communicate with remote location 634 by way of standardnetwork protocols, by way of an Internet type connection, modem, ISDN,ADSL, VSAT satellite communication, cable modem, T1 telecommunicationline, dedicated hardware connection, TCP/IP, other network means, orother wired or wireless communication means. Furthermore, remotelocation 634 can simultaneously manage data communications between anynumber of networks 600 and remote location 634. Additionally, datacommunications can be facilitated between different networks 600geographically located anywhere in the world by way of two or morenetworks 600 having in common shared data communication resources with aremote location 634.

The remote location 606, remote location 616, remote location 618,remote location 634, and remote location 636 can be the same remotelocation. Also, remote location 606, remote location 616, remotelocation 618, remote location 634, and remote location 636 can be datacommunicated to with similar or dissimilar data communication types ormeans. Furthermore, remote location 606, remote location 616, remotelocation 618, remote location 634, and remote location 636 can bedifferent remote locations with different services or differentfunctionality.

Interconnected with access control terminal 650 is the second LAN 626.Access control terminal 650 can be a system 500. In an exemplaryembodiment, an access control terminal can be utilized to accept ID andgrant access to secured areas. For a retail location that has a 24-houraccess area, an access control terminal 650 can be used to allow thegeneral public to present ID to be verified and to enter the securedarea. Acceptable forms of identification can include a smart card, or amagnetic card (i.e. phone, credit card, debit card, pre-paid, automatedteller machine (ATM) or other bank or private issued card), hotel roomkey/card or other insertion type identifying devices. Additionally,biometric input such as handwriting, voice, finger, palm, hand, eye(iris scan) identification can also be an acceptable forms of ID.

There is shown in FIGS. 6A-6B, a floor plan illustrating how a network600 with a plurality of vending machines and a plurality of systems 500,could be implemented in a retail location or in a hotel. Referring toFIG. 6A, a representative floor plan of a retail location offeringbusiness services 229 is shown. Referring to FIG. 6B, a representativefloor plan of a hotel offering business service 238 is shown. Hotelrooms 244 illustrate how business products and services can be madeavailable within a hotel room. Business Center/Lobby Area/Conferenceroom 240 illustrates how business products and services can be madeavailable in dedicated areas of a hotel. Additionally, the front deskarea 242 is shown with copier 602B and Fax 604B shown behind the frontdesk. In an exemplary embodiment, hotel operations copier, faxes, PC'sand other vending machines can be connected to a network 600 and allbusiness equipment (public use and private use) can be monitored,controlled and audited.

There is shown in FIGS. 7A-7C a plurality of exemplary embodimentinterconnection schemes between a PC 630 a system 500, and a local areanetwork (LAN), such LAN can be the first LAN 622, or the second LAN 626.Referring to FIG. 7A, there is shown a PC 630 with a system 500 builtinto the PC 630. A further interconnection exists between the system 500and the LAN, such as first LAN 622 or second LAN 626. PC 630 can beresponsive to the system 500, and controllable by the system 500.Furthermore, both the system 500 and the PC 630 (by way of the system500) can data communicate over the first LAN 622.

Referring to FIG. 7B, there is shown a system 500 external to a PC 630.The system 500 can be mounted to another object or located in anotherobject such as a being integrated into a keyboard, monitor or otherdevice. An interconnection exists between the system 500 and the PC 630.A further interconnection exists between the system 500 and a LAN, sucha LAN can be the first LAN 622 or the second LAN 626. PC 630 can beresponsive to the system 500, and controllable by the system 500.Furthermore, both the system 500 and the PC 630 (by way of the system500) can data communicate over LAN 622.

Referring to FIG. 7C, there is shown a PC 630 interconnected with theLAN. Such a LAN can be the first LAN 622, or the second LAN 626. In thisexemplary embodiment, a separate system 500 is not required. In thisembodiment, the PC 630 provides the necessary functionality to integrateto the LAN. In this embodiment, functionality of the system 500 residesin software and hardware of the PC 630. As required by the application,the system 500 can be (as required) physically or otherwise integratedin the PC 630. This embodiment is particularly useful in originalequipment manufacturing (OEM), wherein it may be desirable to build thesystem 500 functionality directly in to the PC 630 at the time ofmanufacturing to minimize the integration work, system testing, and costof the entire system.

There is shown in FIG. 8, a security configuration implemented by way ofa system 500. A system 500 by way of a security interface means 522 anda wire loop 146 is interconnected with a PC 630, scanner 118, keyboard110, printer 104, modem 114, and a mouse 112.

In an exemplary embodiment, all equipment accessible to the public isinterconnected with wire loop 146. Electrical continuity status of wireloop 146 is data communicated to the universal server, and other systems500. In the event the continuity of wire loop 146 changes, such as wireloop 146 is electrically broken, system 500 can still performappropriate tasks. Appropriate tasks include sounding alarms, lockingaccess doors, and utilizing network 600 to notify authorities (police,fire, security, front desk, retail store owner), and or datacommunicating with data communicating devices. Data communicating todevices can include other systems 500, such as access control 650.

Referring to FIGS. 9A-9B, there is shown a customer transaction routine700. Processing begins in block 702 where a “capture a transaction”command is initiated. A “capture a transaction” command is initiatedwhen a customer/user (generally referred to as a user) inserts a validform of ID. Valid forms of ID's can include a smart card, or a magneticcard (i.e. phone, credit card, debit card, pre-paid, automated tellermachine (ATM) or other bank or private issued card), hotel room key/cardor other insertion type identifying devices. Additionally, biometricinput such as hand writing voice, finger, palm, hand, eye (iris scan)identification can also be an acceptable forms of ID. Processing thenmoves to decision block 704.

Processing in decision block 704 determines if valid ID data wasreceived (presented by the user) in response to a “capture atransaction” initiated command. If the resultant is in the affirmative,that is the user has presented valid ID and the data from the ID hasbeen recorded, then processing moves to block 706. If the resultant isin the negative, that is no valid ID was presented, the processing isreturned to the calling routine.

Processing in block 706 creates a transaction record based in part onthe recorded ID data. Transaction processing can then proceed asprogrammed in several different formats. In a first transaction processa PMS/MIS or POS system can process the transaction data and determinethe validity of the transaction to continue “approved” use or “denied”use of the vending equipment. Any suitable method of transactionverification can be employed including local or remote databases, creditbureaus, corporate accounts, in-store accounts, or very important person(VIP) memberships to name a few.

In a second transaction process a server, such as a universal server canprocess the transaction data and determine the validity of thetransaction to continue “approved” use or “denied” use of the vendingequipment. Any suitable method of transaction verification can beemployed including local or remote databases credit bureaus, corporateaccounts, in-store accounts, or very important person (VIP) membershipsto name a few.

In a third transaction process, a PC 630 can be used to determinevalidity of the transaction to continue “approved” use or “denied” useof the vending equipment. Any suitable method of transactionverification can be employed including local or remote databases, creditbureaus, corporate accounts, in-store accounts, or very important person(VIP) memberships to name a few. In an exemplary embodiment, such atransaction processing method could effectuate the use of Internet baseddata connections, intranet, extranet, telecommunication line such asphone, ISDN, ADSL, or VSAT satellite communications. The transactionprocessing can be transparent and undetectable to a user of PC 630.

When transaction processing is complete and a resultant of thetransaction process is determined, processing moves to decision block708. In decision block 708, a test is performed to determine if the useof the vending equipment has been authorized. If the resultant is in theaffirmative, that is the resultant of the transaction processing is“approved,” then processing moves to block 712. If the resultant of thetransaction processing is in the negative, that is the resultant of thetransaction processing is “declined,” then processing moves to block710.

Processing in block 710 informs the user that the transaction-processingattempt was “declined.” Processing control is then returned to thecalling routine.

Processing in block 712 informs the user the transaction processing was“approved” and enables the vending for use. During use, relevantmarketing data, and advertisements can be displayed on the system 500interconnected with the vending machine. Relevant marketing data caninclude current date and time, location, total sale amount, and whereappropriate total copies, faxed pages, time used, PC usage, onlineusage, electronic commerce charges, total prints and other relevantmarketing data. Processing then moves to block 714.

Processing in block 714 refreshes the display as advertisement, ormarketing data change. Processing then moves to block 716 of FIG. 9B.

Processing in block 716 allows advertising to be displayed on eachsystem 500 or vending machine capable of displaying advertising.Advertisements can be distributed and displayed at any time during thevend cycle.

In an exemplary embodiment, a universal server distributes advertisingcontent over a network 600. When an advertisement is routed to a system500 or vending machine currently in use, the system 500 or vendingmachine in use, determines if an advertisement can be displayed. If anadvertisement can be displayed at the current time then theadvertisement is displayed. The routing criterion attached to theadvertisement determines which systems 500 or vending machines willaccept and display the advertisement.

For example, if a tennis shoe advertisement is globally distributed androuted to all systems 500 then each system 500 or vending machine thatcan, will accept and display the advertisement. Alternatively, anadvertisement can be target marketed to a selected group of systems 500and vending machines. For example, it is desirable to distribute anddisplay “run” an advertisement for a multifunction fax machine. The faxmachine is target marketed to the small office-home office (“SOHO”)market. By distributing the advertisement globally with attached routingcriterion to only “run” the advertisement on systems 500 and vendingmachines in retail stores that specialize in SOHO related businessservices then the advertisement will only be “run” in that market onthose systems 500 and vending machines. Routing criterion can beutilized to distribute and manage advertising content by way of anyuniversal server, over any network 600, to any system 500 or vendingmachine capable of displaying such advertisements. Processing then movesto block 718.

Processing in block 718 allows a user to purchase by electroniccommerce, transaction items advertised and displayed on any system 500or vending machine capable of displaying the advertisements. Theelectronic commerce transaction can be processed as previously disclosedin processing block 706. Processing then moves to decision block 720.

Processing in decision block 720 tests to see if any authorizationamounts or other system limit settings have been reached or exceeded. Ifthe resultant of the test is in the affirmative, that is anauthorization amount of system limit has been reached or exceeded, thenprocessing moves to block 722. If the resultant is in the negative, thatis an authorization amount or system limit has not been reached orexceeded, then processing moves to block 724.

Processing in block 724 data communicates with the universal server. Theuniversal server can effectuate control of the system 500, requestcertain data be transmitted, or conduct other types of datacommunication as appropriate. Processing then returns to block 712.

Processing in block 722 can re-authorize transaction data. The users canbe prompted to present ID again or choose to allow the same transactiondata to be reprocessed. Alternatively, a user can terminate atransaction. Should a user decide to present ID or give consent to are-authorizing of previous transaction data, processing moves to block706. If a user decides to terminate the transaction or the universalserver or system 500 or vending machine decides to terminate thetransaction, processing moves to block 726.

Processing in block 726 terminates a transaction by disabling theappropriate vending machines and printing a transaction receipt.Printing of a receipt can be optional or at the user's request.Processing then moves to block 728.

Processing in block 728 data communicates with the universal server. Theuniversal server can effectuate control of the system 500, requestcertain data be transmitted, or conduct other types of datacommunication as appropriate. Processing is then returned to the callingroutine.

Referring to FIG. 10, there is shown a service routine 800. To handle avariety of service issues, a plurality of systems 500 can independentlyrequest a response from a universal server. Networks may vary fromlocation to location with respect to the type and quantity of vendingequipment, and systems 500 networked. Furthermore, remedies to problemssuch as “out of supplies,” and appropriate responses to “alarmconditions” can vary in accordance with a particular location desire,specification, or business policy. With the vast combinations andvariations in appropriate responses to service requests initiated by asystem 500, in an exemplary embodiment, it is desirable that theuniversal server responds in accordance with the programmed desires ofthe network administrator/location.

Through non-limiting example, reliance on a universal server toadminister service responses to a plurality of systems 500 beginsprocessing in block 802. The universal server is interconnected with aplurality of systems 500 and a plurality of vending machines by way of afirst LAN 622 and/or a second LAN 626. In block 802 the universalserver, PMS/MIS 620 or POS system 614, or PC 630 determines if a servicecondition has been requested by a system 500 or a vending machineconnected to the network 600. Such service conditions can include out ofsupply, determination of a lengthy period of time without usage,inability to successfully complete a transaction, and inability to printa receipt. In addition, security alerts and other service conditions canbe transmitted for processing. Processing then moves to block 804.

Processing in block 804 interprets a service request and transmits aresponse to the individual system 500 requesting service. Thetransmitted response can serve as an acknowledgement of receipt of therequest or can serve as an instruction to take action, or correct aproblem.

As an example, if a system 500 were to request a response toout-of-paper” error detection, the universal server by way ofprogramming by the network administrator can respond to the requestingsystem 500. The response to the requesting system 500 could be an “openpaper supply drawer” command. By way of solenoid control means 528 therequesting system 500 can “open the supply door” and prompt the user torestock the paper supply. Processing then moves to block 806.

Processing in block 806 data communicates with the universal server andcan transmit a plurality of responses to take affirmative action to anyappropriate system 500 on the network 600. An individual system 500 candata communicate with a second system 500 to “signal” awareness of theservice condition and resolve the service condition.

As an example, if a system 500 were to request a response to “securitybreach” error detection, the universal server by way of programming bythe network administrator can respond to the requesting system 500, orany other system 500 on the network 600. The response to the appropriatesystem 500 could be a “lock the 24-hour access front door” command. Byway of solenoid control means 528 the appropriate system 500 can “lockthe 24-hour access front door.” In addition, the universal server canuse “appropriate means” to contact the police or storeowner to reportthat a theft may be in progress. Appropriate means for the universalserver could include interfacing to the in-store security system.

As a second example, if a system 500 were to request a response to a“general alarm condition” as might be detected by way of hardwaresecurity interface means 522 the universal server could respond. Theresponse from the universal server could be an affirmative actioncommand to “sound an alarm” at a remote location such as a front desk orsecurity office. In addition, commands could be transmitted to theremote site to activate a warning system in proximity to the universalserver or in proximity to the system 500 detecting the “general alarmcondition.” If the “general alarm condition” is in error or the threatis no longer present then the universal server can data communicate tothe plurality system 500 or warning systems requesting service to“deactivate and reset” the hardware security interface means 522,including alarm means 524. The universal server can take additionalaffirmative action. Contact to a remote site can be initiated. Remotesites can include the front desk of a hotel, security office, or policestation.

The universal server can use any means available by way of network 600to initiate contact with a remote location. For example, the universalserver could by way of modem 544, voice record and playback means 570(including microphone 572, and speaker 574), and video record andplayback means 576 (including camera 578, first display means 582, andsecond display means 580) communicate with a security agency. Processingmoves to block 808.

Processing in block 808 interprets data communication broadcast onnetwork 600 by a plurality of systems 500. Individual system 500 mayrequest service data to be entered into a service database controlled bythe universal server.

For example, when a system 500 detects that a transaction has concludedon a particular vending machine controlled by said system 500, atransaction complete service record can be sent to server 632. Server632 in accordance with programming from a network administrator maystore the record in a transaction database, and respond to the servicerequest from the said system 500 by data communicating an acknowledgesignal. A server 632 can be a universal server. Processing moves toblock 810.

Processing in block 810 allows the universal server to broadcast aservice message to either an individual system 500, a subset of allsystems 500 or all systems 500 on a network 600. A broadcast servicemessage can include changing system 500 or vending machine operatingparameters (such as pricing). A universal server can place a system 500or vending machine in or out of service or choose to print on a network600 printer. The systems 500 can respond to a service broadcast with anacknowledgement of a message received or a request to re-send theservice broadcast. All network 600 data communications are in accordancewith established network protocol programming. Processing then returnsto the call routine.

There is shown in FIG. 11, a transaction routing routine 900. Processingbegins in decision block 902, wherein transaction data is evaluated todetermine if it is PRE-VEND or POST-VEND transaction data. If theresultant is that the transaction data is PRE-VEND transaction data,that is the customer has not yet used the vending equipment for aproduct or service, processing moves to block 904. If the resultant isthat the transaction data is POST-VEND transaction data, that is, thecustomer has previously been authorized to use the vending equipment andhas now concluded the vending transaction, processing moves to block914.

In block 904, any acceptable form of identification (ID) presented by acustomer or other person in any system 500 connected to the first LAN622 or the second LAN 626 is read/processed/measured/extracted/obtainedor otherwise recorded. Acceptable forms of identification can include asmart card, or a magnetic card (i.e. phone, credit card, debit card,pre-paid, automated teller machine (ATM) or other bank or private issuedcard), hotel room key/card or other insertion type identifying devices.Additionally, biometric input such as handwriting, voice, finger, palm,hand, eye (iris scan) identification can also be an acceptable form ofID. For disclosure purposes, a first and second LAN 622 and 626 isgenerally referred to as a network 600. Processing then moves to block906.

In block 906, the identification data obtained in block 904 by thepresentation of an acceptable form of ID is data communicated touniversal server by way of the first LAN 622 and/or the second LAN 626.Processing then moves to block 908.

Processing in block 908 checks a routing table resident within theuniversal server. A routing table determines if a transaction “swap datastep, append data step, convert data step, route data step, and/orprocess data step” is required. Said transaction “swap data step, appenddata step, convert data step, route data step, and/or process data step”processing is referred to as a dynamic identification interchange (DII).The DII process accepts a first identification form/transaction form andsubstitutes the first form for a second form. For example, a hotel roomkey/card may be accepted as a first form of ID and in a DII processingstep substituted for or appended to a second form of ID, a credit card.This process can allow a user to have goods and services billed to acredit card by being identified first with a hotel room key/card.Processing then moves to block 910.

In an exemplary embodiment, a user registered with a hotel may presentas a first form of ID a fingerprint and in a DII processing step have ahotel PMS/MIS system substitute or append a room number as a second IDform. When the user has completed use of the vending machine, a bill canthen be posted to a hotel room record within the hotel's PMS/MIS system.

In another exemplary embodiment, a customer can present an ACCESS card(such as a smart card) as a first form of ID. The universal server canevaluate the ID form as presented and grant access to an unattended24-hour access area. The same form of ID can then be presented in avariety of vending machines. Upon the presentation of the first form ofID in these vending machines the DII processing can substitute or appenda second form of ID, an in-store account number. As the customer uses aplurality of vending machines for goods and services transaction billingcan be posted to the in-store customer's account.

In another exemplary embodiment, a customer can present a first form ofID requesting to use a vending machine. Through DII processing it may bedetermined that the customer qualifies for special pricing, or hasearned a promotional reward. The DII process step could substitute orappend a second form of ID, such as a database record number to thetransaction record. The database record number could record thepromotional reward status and further request a second DII processingstep. This second DII processing step could append from a third datasource relevant customer information (i.e. name and address). Any numberof DII steps could be requested without limitation. The full transactionrecord could then be recorded in a database. Using this newly createddata record, information could be mailed or the customer otherwisecontacted with regards to the promotional reward. At the same time theDII processing is occurring, a service request can be initiated bycalling service routine 800. With instructions from the DII settings,including pricing in the system 500 or vending machine the customer isbeing authorized to use, can be reprogrammed. Upon authorizationapproval, the vending machine and its performance will be customprogrammed for this customer's use.

In another exemplary embodiment, a user presents a first form of ID anddesires to use a PC 630. A DII processing step can send instructions toa server controlling a PC 630 or to a PC 630 directly. While the DIIprocessing step is determining if a second form of ID is required andhow the transaction should be routed, PC 630 reconfigures the desktop.In such a scenario, the user has been previously allowed to configurethe PC 630 as desired to suit processing need and ease of userequirements. The DII step invokes in the PC 630, a reset function toaccess the user's established profile and reconfigures the PC 630 to theuser's settings. In this fashion, a PC 630 user can travel to a PC 630located in any location of the world and by way of a common networkdatabase, reconfigure the PC 630 to his or her preferences. In thescenario where there are thousands of franchised locations desiring tohave PC's 630 in thousands of in-store and out-of-store locations, auser can present a first form of ID and have any PC 630 reconfigured totheir personal preferences.

In another exemplary embodiment, a user can present a first form of IDat a PC 630. A DII processing step can determine the status of the user(number of previous visits, preferences) and prompt the user to answercustomer survey questions. DII processing can route transactioninformation and customer survey responses to any desired location ordatabase. Additionally, through DII processing, accounts can beestablished to allow an electronic commerce transaction to occur. Suchaccounts can include customer identification, customer purchasinghistory, customer credit limits, other customer information, electroniccommerce accounts, payment accounts, shipping accounts, local franchisestore locations, local in-store customer account information,transaction processing fees due, and other related account detail.Should a customer desire to purchase products through an electroniccommerce transaction from a distribution fulfillment center (“DFC”)located anywhere in the world, a DII processing step can effectuate thetransaction. A distribution fulfillment center is any store,manufacturer, warehouse, or other repository of goods and or servicesfrom which a customer can purchase, ship, receive, and or order fulfillsaid goods and services. A pack and ship type company can be adistribution fulfillment center.

In addition, a DFC can initiate a transaction and use the DII processingto bill a customer who may have an account accessible by way of thepresent invention. Such DFC initiated transactions can be particularlyuseful for billing a group member, club member or customer with anassociation to a business, store, or group.

Any form of ID can be presented to a DII resident on or accessible by auniversal server, resident in or accessible by a system 500, resident onor accessible by a vending machine, or resident in a database accessibleby a universal server, system 500, or vending machine. If thetransaction requires a DII processing step, the step can be performedtransparent to the users or with the user's input. Furthermore, the DIIcan encrypt and decrypt transaction data, whereby secure transactionprocessing can be accomplished. DII processing can occur locally orremotely worldwide.

Processing in block 910 invokes a routing routine to determine if a DIIstep is required and where the resultant transaction processing shouldbe routed. Accordingly, a transaction can be DII processed, ifnecessary, and routed to a transaction processor. Such a transactionprocessor could be the in-store or hotel PMS/MIS or POS system. If thetransaction is a credit card transaction that requires the step of“authorization,” “sale,” “settlement,” or other credit card processingstep, the hotel or retailer's PMS/MIS or POS system can complete theprocessing step. Should the PMS/MIS or POS system be unable to completethese types of transactions, the universal server, system 500 or otherdata processing device in a network 600 can complete these steps.Processing then moves to block 912.

In an exemplary embodiment, secured transaction processing referred toin block 910 can be by way of VISA/MASTERCARD Secure ElectronicTransaction (“SET”) protocol standard. Furthermore, SET transactionprocessing can be implemented by way of a system 500, a vending machine,or a universal server. The SET protocol standard for secured transactionprocessing can be implemented with other data processing equipmentaccessible by a system 500, vending machine or the universal server.

Processing in block 910 can effectuate the following exemplaryembodiment. A customer can enter or check into at hotel or retailoutlet, wherein a valid credit card is entered into the hotels orretailer's PMS/MIS system, or POS system. The customer can then be givenan ID form, such as a card, smart card. hotel room key/card, or presentanother form of ID (biometric). This second form of ID can be enteredinto the hotel's or retailer's PMS/MIS or POS system. The customer canthen present the second ID form to facilitate a vending transaction inany system 500. Transaction information by way of the network 600 candata communicate to the universal server transaction information toobtain first or other ID forms (such as payment or account ID forms).DII processing can then access the hotel's or retailer's PMS/MIS or POSsystem and obtain the customer's valid credit card or billinginformation. The credit card or billing data can be appended to thetransaction record. The new appended transaction record can then berouted for processing. Transaction processing can include, but is notlimited to adding the charges to to a hotel bill (folio), paying cash,charging a smart card or credit card, charging an account, or recordingthe charges in a database.

Processing in block 912 routes PRE-VEND transactions for validation.Transaction validation can occur in a plurality of ways dependent onserver programming, hotel/retail outlet preference, as well as based oncard type, and/or ID type. Transactions can be validated at a remotelocation, such as remote location 616 whereby access to remote location616 is by way of a system 500, network 600, and POS system 614. Inaddition, transactions can be validated at a remote location, such asremote location 618 whereby access to remote location 618 is by way of asystem 500, network 600, and PMS/MIS system 620. Furthermore,transactions can be validated at a remote location, such as remotelocation 606 by way of a system 500, network 600, and PC 630.Transactions can also be validated at a remote location, such as remotelocation 634 whereby access to remote location 634 is by way of a system500, network 600, and server 632. Server 632 is a universal server.Furthermore, transactions can be validated at a remote location, such asremote location 636 whereby access to remote location 636 is by way of asystem 500. Additionally, transactions can be validated by way of adatabase resident in a system 500, a POS system 614, a server 632, or aPMS/MIS system 620. Transactions can also be validated by way of adatabase accessible by a system 500, a POS system 614, a server 632, auniversal server, or a PMS/MIS system 620.

The resultant of the transaction processing is data communicated to therequesting system 500. If the resultant is in the affirmative, thecustomer is “approved” to use the vending equipment, then the requestingsystem 500 activates the vending equipment for use by the customer. Ifthe resultant is in the negative, that is the customer has been“declined” for vending machine usage, then the requesting system 500denies usage of the appropriate vending machine. The customer isnotified of the “declined” status by way of LED indicator means 504,voice record and playback means 570, first display means 582, or otherindicators means. Processing then moves back to the calling routine.

Processing in block 914 routes POST-VEND transaction data. POST-VENDtransaction data includes PRE-VEND identification data, in addition tothe marketing data generated resultant from the vend process.

Examples of PRE-VEND transaction data can include identification, date,time, appended ID data, sale limits, system pricing, merchantidentification, routing codes, and system 500 ID codes. AdditionalPRE-VEND transaction data can include network traffic codes, authorizingsale amounts, system 500 configuration parameters, database accesscodes, remote location codes, currency codes, terminal codes, and otherrouting and system operational codes.

Examples of the marketing transaction data can include sale amount,finish date, finish time, total copies, total fax/phone/data port pagesor minutes used locally, total fax/phone/data port pages or minutes usedlong distance, total fax/phone/data phone pages or minutes usedinternationally, and total fax pages received or calls made. System 500and network programming can control and monitor local, long distance,and international phone, data port, and or fax delineation. Additionalmarketing transaction data can include total PC 630 general usage time,PC 630 applications utilized/usage time, PC 630 online usage (sitecontact specific, service specific, time used per site), total printedoutput count from a plurality of printers, and total scans made into thePC 630. Additional marketing data can include electronic commercepurchases, phone usage (including time, calls, etc.), smart cardre-valued totals, laptop usage, data port usage, and/or othermarketing/transaction measurement/indicator data.

Routing of post-vend transaction processing by way of the DII isresultant from the updating of processing databases, accountingdatabases, and marketing databases in which the DII controls, manages,and/or has access to as shown in block 908. Further, post-vendtransaction processing by way of the DII is resultant from postprocessing of credit cards, smart card and other types of transactionsthat require an intervening process to effectuate an electronic transferof funds.

PRE-VEND and POST-VEND transactions can be processed by way of the PC630 simultaneously and transparently to a user of the same PC 630. Thisfunctionality allows the PC 630 to be a vending machine interconnectedwith a system 500, a universal server such as server 632, PMS/MIS system620 or a POS system 614. Furthermore, the PC 630 can implement the DIItransaction processing as disclosed in block 908 and block 912.Additionally, the PC 630 can implement the DII locally with reliance ona remote site/server over a TCP/IP network, a Microsoft NT network, aNovell Netware network, an Internet connection, a VSAT connection, orother network interface. Also, the PC 630 can implement the DII residingremotely on a remote site/server over a TCP/IP network, a Microsoft NTnetwork, a Novell Netware network, an Internet connection, a VSATconnection, or other network interface.

There is shown in FIG. 12, a system self-configuring routine 1000. In anexemplary embodiment, each system 500 or vending machine can bepreprogrammed with a network address ID or can have a network address IDautomatically assigned. In certain network configurations apreprogrammed network address may be preferable over dynamicallyassigned network addressing. Both methods can be effectuated withsimilar results.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a self-configuringroutine 1000 is disclosed although other network address schemes couldbe employed. Processing begins in block 1002, wherein a polling beaconaddress is incremented. Only unallocated polling beacon addresses areassigned. Processing then moves to block 1004.

Processing in block 1004 tests to see if the polling beacon address hasreached an upper limit. If the polling beacon address has reached anupper limit, then the polling beacon address is reset to a minimumpreset limit or address. Processing then moves to block 1006.

Processing in block 1006 globally transmits over network 600 a uniquepolling beacon address. Processing then moves to block 1008.

Processing in block 1008 waits for data communication responses fromsystems 500 and/or vending machines on network 600. If a system 500 orvending machine on network 600 has been preprogrammed with a networkaddress, then said system 500 or vending machine data communicates aresponse to the polling beacon. If, however, a system 500 or vendingmachine on network 600 has not been preprogrammed, then a system 500 orvending machine desiring a network address can data communicate aresponse to the polling beacon. A universal server then creates (if notalready created) a network configuration database. Data communicationcan then be conducted on network 600 with any system 500 or vendingmachine. Network addresses can take the form of Internet IP typeaddressing.

Processing in the system self-configuring routine continues until eachsystem 500 and vending machine has been assigned a valid networkaddress. Processing then returns to the calling routine

There is shown in FIG. 13, a re-value card routine 1100. Processingbegins in block 1102, wherein a card is inserted into a cardreader/writer, such as smart card reader/writer 548 or magnetic cardreader/writer 550. Processing then moves to block 1104.

In block 1104, the system data communicates to the universal server thecurrent “status” of the card and the fact that it has been inserted intoa system 500. The universal server can then request that a portion orthe entire contents of the card to be data communicated to the universalserver, or any other device on the network 600. Processing then moves toblock 1106.

In block 1106, the universal server processes the data communicationbetween the universal server, system 500 (containing the card), and anyother device as necessary that is present on network 600. If required,the universal server can request a DII processing step to obtainappropriate or verify transaction data. Processing then moves to block1108.

Processing in block 1108 is responsive to the resultant obtained fromprocessing in block 1106. Furthermore, if a DII response requiresadditional information, processing in block 1108 prompts the user forsuch information/data. For example, a user can be prompted to enter, bvway of keypad 540, the amount of money/units/credit to transfer to thecard or to an account referenced by the card from sources acquired bythe DII processing step. If additional data, such as the presentation ofa credit card is required to effectuate the transfer of cash value, thecustomer can be prompted to “swipe” or otherwise present a valid creditcard. If the universal server is able to utilize the DII to obtain datarequired to effectuate transaction processing, a customer may only beasked to “confirm-to-continue” with the transfer. In another exemplaryembodiment, the re-valuing by way of the universal server, and/or DIIprocessing can be seamless to the customer and transfers funds(money/credit/units) to the card or to an account referenced by the cardwithout any intervention by the customer. Processing then moves to block1110.

Processing in decision block 1110 effectuates the processing of thetransaction and eventual “approval” or “denial” of a request to transferfunds (money/credit/units) to the smart card. If the resultant is in thenegative, that is, the transaction has been “denied” then processingreturns to the calling routine. If the resultant is in the affirmative,that is, the transaction has been “approved” then processing moves toblock 1112.

Upon “approval” processing in block 1112 data communicates between theuniversal server, system 500 containing the card, and any other device(as required) on network 600 to effectuate the transfer of funds(money/credit/units), and subsequent transaction processing (billing“settling” as required). The transaction is then completed, promptingthe users to facilitate any final actions as may be required. If thecustomer desires a receipt of the transaction just completed, a receiptcan be printed by any printer on network 600. Processing control thenreturns to the calling routine.

There is shown in FIG. 14, a help desk routine 1200. Processing beginsin block 1202, wherein a user at any system 500 can press a “HELP” or“SERVICE” button or otherwise request assistance. Once a request forassistance has been requested by the customer, the appropriate system500 data communicates the request for service to the universal server.Alternatively, a help desk can initiate a request for “HELP” or“SERVICE” broadcasting such a request to one or more systems 500 orvending machines. The help desk can intervene, initiating a “HELP” or“SERVICE” request to effect changes/upgrades/repairs to any vendingmachine, any system 500, any universal server, or any other equipmentresiding on the network 600. Furthermore, a help desk can intervene,initiating a “HELP” or “SERVICE” request to page a customer in a hotel,retail outlet, or other location in proximity to a system 500 or vendingmachine. Processing then moves to block 1204.

In block 1204, a data communication between the universal server and thesystem 500 requesting “HELP” or “SERVICE” occurs. Such a request isresultant in the universal server identifying where and what kind of“HELP” or “SERVICE” is available and data communicating to a differentsystem 500 or network location requesting specific “HELP” or “SERVICE”.Processing then moves to block 1206.

In block 1206, the universal server receives the “HELP” or “SERVICE”data communication by way of the calling system 500. The universalserver then responds to the requesting system 500, acknowledging therequest. The universal server then issues a request for “HELP” or“SERVICE” to the programmed network location where service personnel ordata processing equipment reside. The universal server then effectuatesthe data communication between the user who requested “HELP” or“SERVICE” and the “HELP or “SERVICE” source.

The term “HELP” or “SERVICE” can include a response to interactiveadvertising, electronic commerce activities or processes, vendingmachine usage requests, emergency needs, and other general purposequestion and answer requests. The term “LIVE” can include viewing,talking, and exchanging data with another person or data processingequipment by way of a system 500, network 600, or other processingequipment.

“HELP” or “SERVICE” can be by way of “LIVE” interaction with a person orby way of prerecorded voice and/or video available on the universalserver, or accessible by the universal server from a remote help desklocation. Any system 500 residing on a network-600 can be utilized todata communicate with any other system 500 residing on the network 600to provide data communication for “HELP” or “SERVICE” requirements. Inaddition, any system 500 residing on the network 600 can, by way of thevending machine interconnected with said system 500, such as a PC 630,data communicate with a remote location to obtain “HELP or “SERVICE”data. Then, by way of said system 500 data communicate to the system 500originally requesting “HELP” or “SERVICE”. The original system 500requesting “HELP” or “SERVICE” can be the same system 500 in which aninterconnection with a vending machine, such as a PC 630 is relied uponto obtain “HELP” or “SERVICE” from a remote location.

Such a remote help desk can reside on-site or off-site. Such on-sitelocations can include a front desk of a hotel, a customer servicecounter of a retail outlet, or a remote location accessible by way ofphone, Internet, VSAT, other communication forms. Available help deskinformation/resources can include voice and/or video datacommunications.

When a “HELP” or “SERVICE” request is resultant from the help deskdiscovering that service, change, or an adjustment is required, theprescribed service, change, or adjustment can be made over network 600.Whether the change is to a system 500, the universal server, or anyvending machine (for example a PC 630) interconnected with a system 500changes can be made by way of network 600. Such service, changes,adjustments, upgrades, and repairs can be effectuated by way of the datacommunication at any time with or without a “HELP” or “SERVICE” request,transparent to the customer.

In an exemplary embodiment, a customer at a personal computer pressesthe “HELP” button and a message is data communicated to the universalserver. If “HELP” can be obtained at a remote site on the Internet, aresponse to the system 500 sending the “HELP” message would be to accessthe Internet site and display the “HELP” solution. The universal servercould respond to the system 500 requesting the “HELP” message with anetwork ID location of another system 500 or a geographic location suchas the front desk of a hotel or in the security office for resolution tothe “HELP” request. Alternatively, the universal server could respond tothe system 500 sending the “HELP” message, by data communicating aresponse comprising voice and video stored on the universal server oraccessible by the universal server. Such “HELP” message can includedigitized video clips, digitized sound clips, or other digital messages.

In block 1206, the universal server responds with a data communicationto the system 500 requesting “HELP” and/or “SERVICE. Such a datacommunication can include network identification and accessdata/instruction on how and where said system 500 can access and obtainthe “HELP” and/or “SERVICE” requested by the user. Such a datacommunication by the universal server may also be data communicated to aplurality of systems 500. If no “LIVE”, “HELP” or “SERVICE” isavailable, as may be determined by the universal server, the universalserver can data communicate instructive commands with the system 500requesting “HELP” or “SERVICE”. Such instructive commands can grantaccess to a database or identifving a database where prerecorded voiceand/or video “HELP” or “SERVICE” messages can be retrieved and played tobest answer a user question. Processing then moves to block 1208.

In block 1208, voice and/or video data are data communicated between thesystem 500, by way of the voice record and playback means 570, and/orthe video record and playback means 576. When “LIVE” access to a helpdesk is established, a user can freely talk, listen, and/or view a“LIVE” video feed to obtain instruction and have “HELP” and/or “SERVICE”questions answered. As necessary, the operator of the help desk canaccess the vending machine (in particular the PC 630) and aid the usersin resolving operational, procedural, or other service related problems.Processing then moves to block 1210.

Processing in block 1210 allows a user, a help desk, and/or a universalserver to terminate the “HELP” and/or “SERVICE” request. Processing thenreturns to the calling procedure.

There is shown in FIG. 15, an advertising routine 1300. Processingbegins in block 1302 when a user presents a valid form of ID at a system500 to begin a transaction. Alternatively, processing in block 1302 canbegin by way of a person responding, with a keypad 540 or other system500 data input, to an advertisement that may be displayed on a system500 currently not in use.

In addition to the processing disclosed in transaction routine 900, theDII can select advertising and other marketing advertisements from adatabase (remote database or local database). The selection of marketingadvertisements can be random or in accordance with a customer profile(individual or by group type). Customer profile parameters can beaccessible by the universal server and/or by way of DII process steps.

An individual customer profile is a profile for an individual person. Agroup profile is a profile that is specific to a group (i.e. Aparticular hotel brand or retail brand). Furthermore, the individual andgroup type profiles can be the same profile or different profiles.Additionally, DII process steps can selectively choose advertisingcontent in harmony (deduced from the individual or group profiles) atrandom or in accordance with predetermined universal server programming.Selection of advertising content can be audio only or visual only or acombination of both audio and visual. In the present invention, a“banner” type, “point cast” type, or “multi cast” type advertisement canbe displayed on a system 500. In an exemplary embodiment, when acustomer desires additional information, audio can be added to thedisplayed “banner” advertisement to further inform the customer.Additionally, audio can come in the form of a system 500 generatedtelephone call to the “banner” advertising source (business that placedthe advertisement). “Banner,” “point cast,” “multi cast” typeadvertisements are generally graphical advertisements commonly found onInternet web pages. In addition, full snap shot icon typeadvertisements, as well as full motion advertisements each with orwithout audio, can be displayed. Furthermore, PC 6can deliverinteractive screen saver advertising as well as each of the other typesof advertising disclosed in the present invention. Advertising contentdisplayed on either a system 500 or vending machine, such as PC 630 canbe monitored, controlled, distributed, and shown by way of network 600and a universal server.

In addition to the DII processing and data communication of a customerprofile, DII processing also processes and data communicates adistribution profile. The distribution profile determines which of thesystems 500, in a plurality of systems 500 residing on a network 600will receive the current advertisement data. A distribution profile candirect advertising to a single system 500 located on the network 600 orto a subset of systems 500 (i.e. all PC 630, all copiers, all faxmachines, etc.). Furthermore, the distribution profile can directadvertising to the entire population of systems 500 on the network 600.Processing then moves to block 1304.

Processing in block 1304 distributes the advertisement over the network600 in accordance with the distribution profile. Processing then movesto block 1306.

Processing in block 1306 responds to customer input effectuated inresponse to any advertisement on any system 500 located on the network600. At any system 500 on the network 600, a customer/user can elect tobuy the advertised item. Other customer's/user's responses can includeto “see more” detail about the advertised item, visit a web site, orplace a telephone call to the advertiser or information source.Additionally, customer's/user's responses can include printing outdetailed information regarding the advertisement, request a sales personto contact the customer/user later, send an Email (electronic nail), orrespond to the advertisement as may be supported by the system 500.Processing then moves to block 1308.

Processing in block 1308 adds the amount of an electronic commercepurchase to the total of the current transaction. If the customer/userinteracted with a system 500 in which no current transaction was inprogress, the system 500 by way of the universal server will prompt theuser to present a valid form of ID and start a transaction. DIIprocessing can be relied upon to associate any form of valid IDpresented to facilitate the electronic commerce purchase. Receipts orother printed documents, such as order forms or conformation forms canbe printed on a printer on network 600 as required. Processing controlis then returned to the call procedure.

There is shown in FIG. 16, a print routine 1400. Processing begins inblock 1402 when a system 500 desires to print data on a printer, such asprinter 612A or printer 612B. In an exemplary embodiment, print data canbe advertisement print data, transaction summary print data, receiptprint data, vending machine print data, such as from a PC 630, or otherprint data. If a system 500 is preprogrammed with a network 600 networklocation ID (network address) for a printer 612A or 612B, then printingon printer 612A or 612B can be facilitated by way of a datacommunication between the system 500 and printer 612A or printer 612B.Subsequent to any printing, a data communication between the system 500desiring to print and the universal server can occur, wherein the system500 desiring to print data requests permission from the universal serverto data communicate print data to printer 612A or 612B. If permission isgranted and printing is successful, processing control. returns to thecalling procedure. If processing is not successful, then processingmoves to block 1404.

Processing in block 1404, determines if the system 500 desiring to printdata is preprogrammed with a network 600 location ID (network address)to facilitate remote access to the printer 612A or 612B. Additionally,processing in block 1404 tests to see if an attempt to print to printer612A or 612B was unsuccessful (printer off-line, out-of-paper, etc.). Ineither case, a request as to “where to send the print data” is datacommunicated to the universal server. Processing then moves to block1406.

In block 1406, a response from the universal server is data communicatedto any system 500 requesting “where to send the print data”. If aprinter is available. the universal server can respond by sending therequesting system 500 a data communication including the network 600location ID where print data can be data communicated. If no printer isavailable, or the universal server desires to capture the print data,the universal server can data communicate to the system 500 requestingto data communicate print data, the instructions to send the print datato the universal server. Processing then moves to block 1408.

In block 1408, the system 500 desiring to print data, communicates theprint data in accordance with instructions received from the universalserver. If there is an available printer, the universal server candirect the system 500 desiring to print data to print data on theavailable printer. If the universal server determines that there is notan available printer, or desires to capture the print data the universalserver can accept the print data. If the universal server captures theprint data, the print data can be saved, save to be printed later,and/or redirected to a network 600 destination. Furthermore, print datacan be redirected to a remote location, such as remote location 606,616, 618, 634, and/or 636. Processing then moves to decision block 1410.

Processing in decision block 1410 determines if the print data wassuccessfully data communicated. If the resultant is in the affirmative,that is, the print data was either printed or data communicated withouterror then processing control returns to the call procedure. If theresultant is in the negative, processing control moves back to block1404, wherein the universal server can intervene to best complete theprint data request.

There is shown in FIG. 17, a POST-VEND transaction processing routine1500. Processing begins in block 1502, wherein a POST-VEND transactionis data communicated to the universal server. Processing then moves toblock 1504.

In block 1504, the universal server, by way of DII processing (asrequired) routes the POST-VEND transaction for payment, posting, orbilling. The process of payment, posting or billing is generallyreferred to as “settling” or a “settlement” transaction. Transactionscan be routed based on transaction type (credit card, smart card,pre-paid card, hotel key/card, or biometric) to different remotelocations, or to different on-site or off-site databases. Furthermore,post-vend transactions can be routed based upon preprogrammed criteria.For example, all credit card transactions requiring “settlement” can berouted to a first credit bureau until a certain gross daily, monthly,annual dollar amount is achieved. Once the preprogrammed criterion hasbeen satisfied credit card transactions requiring “settlement” can thenbe routed to a second credit bureau. Processing then moves to block1506.

In block 1506, non-credit card and POST-VEND transactions not requiringany additional third party port processing (i.e. by way of a creditbureau) are “settled” by posting the POST-VEND transaction data, by wayof DII processing (as required) to the appropriate remote location, oron-site or off-site database. The universal server can be preprogrammedto store POST-VEND transactions and “batch” post transaction data basedon a preprogrammed criteria. Such “batch” posting preprogrammed criteriacan be based in part on date, time, or quantity of transactions,transaction dollar amount, availability of the database or remotelocation, or other cost, performance or preferences. The term “batch”processing is defined as the process of posting any number oftransactions at once in a formatted block of data. Processing then movesto block 1508.

In block 1508, POST-VEND transactions reliant on a third party processor(i.e. credit cards) are processed in accordance with preprogramming ofthe universal server. Preprogramming of the universal server can includeprocesses and procedures disclosed in block 1504, and 1506. Processingthen moves to block 1510.

In block 1510, the universal server determines whether the POST-VENDtransaction processing was successful. If the POST-VEND transactionprocessing was not successful, that is, the universal server was unableto post process the POST-VEND transaction, then the universal server candata communicate the “unsettled” post vend transaction to a remotelocate. Such a remote location can be a computer center that monitorsthe functionality of a plurality of universal servers. The remotelocation can be remote location 606, 616, 618, 634, or 636. Processingcontrol is then returned to the calling procedure.

There is shown in FIG. 18, an error detection routine 1600. Processingbegins in block 1602, wherein a test is performed. A test is performedto determine if a preprogrammed number of hours have elapsed. Each houra system 500 or a vending machine interconnected with a system 500 isnot operated successfully (a complete vend cycle) by a customer, anon-use timer is incremented. When a preprogrammed number of non-usehours has occurred, an error message can be generated by a system 500and data communicated to the universal server. Alternatively, theuniversal server can generate an error message. In either case, theuniversal server can record the non-use error message and can act asappropriate and programmed to respond. Processing then moves to block1604.

Processing in block 1604, detects if a malfunction has occurred with asystem 500, a vending machine interconnected with a system 500, or aprinter, such as printer 612A or 612B. Other vending machines and dataprocessing equipment on network 600 can also be tested for malfunctions.Malfunction error messages that are detected by a system 500 can be datacommunicated to the universal server. Malfunctions determined by theuniversal server are also recorded. In either case, the universal servercan record the error message and can act as appropriate and programmedto respond. Processing then moves to block 1606.

Processing in block 1606, allows a remote location, such as remotelocation 606, 616, 618, 634, or 636 to poll the universal server for anyerror conditions that may have been detected or may exist on a network600 controlled by the universal server. Furthermore, when a request froma remote location to a universal server is data communicated theuniversal server can poll each system 500 on a network 600. The pollingis equivalent to requesting each system 500 to perform a self-test, andto perform a test to determine if the vending machine interconnect withsaid system 500 is operating correctly. Processing then moves to block1608.

In block 1608, processing of a detected error condition occurs. Theuniversal server can processes error condition messages in accordancewith a hierarchy of error types and severity criteria. Error types thatare classified as “severe” can cause the universal server to datacommunicate with a remote location, such as remote location 606, 616,618, 634, or 636 immediately upon the error being detected. An exampleof an error type that may be classified as “severe” can be a breach ofsecurity detected by way of an alarm means 524.

An error type classified and “not severe” can be stored in the universalserver or in a database that the universal server has access to untilsuch time a regular, or normally scheduled data communication occurswith a remote location. An example of a “not severe” error can be aprinter 612A, or 612B “out-of-paper” condition.

Error conditions whether “severe” or “not severe” can trigger a system500 located on network 600 to alert customer service. or other technicalpersonal to correct the error. For example, an error signal can be audioproduced at a front desk or security office, should an error, such as abreech of security be detected. In addition, the universal server canroute different types of error messages to different locations. Forexample, a service related error can result in an electronic fax beingsent to a remote service location, and a breech in security error can berouted to a security office. Processing then returns to the callprocedure.

While this invention has been described with reference to specificembodiments, it is not necessarily limited thereto. Accordingly, theappended claims should be construed to encompass not only those formsand embodiments of the invention specifically described above, but tosuch other forms and embodiments, as may be devised by those skilled inthe art without departing from its true spirit and scope.

1. A phone card revaluing method for altering the value of a user'sphone card by way of an electronic commerce terminal system comprisingthe steps of: a) detecting whether a phone card has been inserted orswiped in a card reader coupled to said electronic commerce terminal,said phone card providing a first form of user identificationinformation; b) retrieving a plurality of transaction data from saidphone card responsive to said detecting step a); c) communicating saidtransaction data to a universal server, said universal server havingaccess to further user identification information and at least one useraccount from said electronic commerce terminals a nd said universalserver retrieving said further user identification from a database basedon a dynamic identification interchange within said universal server; d)evaluating the validity of said transaction data at said universalserver; e) processing said transaction data and at least one of saidfirst form of user identification information and said further form ofsaid user identification information; f) identifying said at least oneuser account based on at least one of said first form of useridentification information and said further form of said useridentification information; g) requesting information from a remotelocation relating to said at least one user account by said universalserver; h) communicating information to said universal server from saidremote location relating to said at least one user account; i)requesting a transferr of funds either i) between a first one of said atleast one user account and a second one of said at least one useraccount or ii) between said at least one user account and said phonecard to increase the value of said phone card, based on said dynamicidentification interchange within said universal server:and j)transferring said funds based on said request of step i).
 2. A phonecard revaluing method in accordance with claim 1, wherein, after thestep of communicating said transaction data to a universal server, theuser is prompted to enter a desired revalue amount.
 3. A phone cardrevaluing method in accordance with claim 1, wherein the dynamicidentification interchange obtains data to effectuate the transfer offunds.
 4. A phone card revaluing method in accordance with claim 1,wherein the phone card is substituted for a second form of useridentification based on the dynamic identification interchange.